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Library Circulation Desk Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Barry University

Circulation Assistant

Orlando, FL · On-site

Essential Functions: List up to ten essential functions 1. Assists patron at the Circulation Desk • Checking Library materials in and out, including reserve materials. • Following and ...

City of Hutto

Circulation Clerk

Hutto, TX

$20.60 - $22.73/hr

Restocks library brochures, library card applications, and library cards are stocked at circulation desk. Answers telephone and provide routine information over phone, through email, and in-person.

City of Hutto

Circulation Clerk

Hutto, TX · On-site

$20.60 - $22.74/hr

Restocks library brochures, library card applications, and library cards are stocked at circulation desk. * Answers telephone and provide routine information over phone, through email, and in-person.

Barry University

Circulation Assistant

Orlando, FL

List up to ten essential functions 1. Assists patron at the Circulation Desk Checking Library materials in and out, including reserve materials. Following and implementing the library visitor policy.

Elon University

Circulation Paraprofessional

Elon, NC · On-site

$9.50 - $12.50/hr

The Library Circulation Paraprofessional - Law provides day-to-day access services support, with a primary focus on circulation desk operations and patron assistance. This position consistently opens ...

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Library Circulation Desk information

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$15

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How much do library circulation desk jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for library circulation desk in the United States is $15.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.02 and $17.79 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Can you get a job in a library without being a librarian?

Yes, library circulation desk positions are typically staffed by clerks or assistants who do not need to be licensed librarians. These roles often require customer service skills, basic computer knowledge, and may involve handling checkouts, returns, and shelving without requiring a professional librarian certification.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Library Circulation Desk Clerk, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Library Circulation Desk Clerk, you need strong organizational abilities, attention to detail, and familiarity with library practices, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Proficiency with integrated library systems (ILS) like SirsiDynix or Koha and basic office software is typically required. Excellent customer service, communication skills, and patience help you assist patrons effectively and manage challenging situations. These skills ensure efficient library operations, positive patron experiences, and the smooth handling of library materials.

What is circulation work in a library?

Circulation work in a library involves managing the borrowing and returning of library materials, such as books, DVDs, and magazines. Staff in this role use library management systems to check items in and out, update records, and ensure materials are available for patrons. It also includes handling overdue items, fines, and assisting visitors at the circulation desk.

What is the difference between Library Circulation Desk vs Library Assistant?

AspectLibrary Circulation DeskLibrary Assistant
Primary ResponsibilitiesManaging checkouts, returns, overdue items, and patron inquiries at the circulation deskSupporting library operations, shelving, assisting patrons, and administrative tasks
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some positions may prefer library certificationsHigh school diploma; relevant experience may be preferred
Work EnvironmentFront desk area within the library, interacting directly with patronsVarious areas including circulation, shelving, and patron assistance

The Library Circulation Desk primarily handles checkouts, returns, and patron inquiries at the front desk, while Library Assistants support broader library functions including shelving and patron support. Both roles often require similar credentials and work in the same environment, but their specific duties differ.

What are library circulation desk jobs?

Library circulation desk jobs involve assisting patrons with checking out and returning library materials, managing library accounts, answering basic information inquiries, and handling fines or fees. Staff at the circulation desk also help maintain the organization of library resources, issue library cards, and may assist with shelving items. These positions require good customer service skills, attention to detail, and familiarity with library systems. Circulation desk staff are often the first point of contact for library visitors and play a key role in ensuring a positive library experience.

What is a circulation specialist at a library?

A circulation specialist at a library is responsible for managing the check-in and check-out of library materials, assisting patrons with account issues, and maintaining the circulation desk. They often use library management software and require good customer service skills to ensure smooth operations. The role may also involve shelving, organizing materials, and enforcing library policies.

What are the typical challenges faced at the library circulation desk, and how can they be managed effectively?

Working at the library circulation desk often involves handling a high volume of patron interactions, managing book checkouts and returns, and addressing inquiries about library resources. Common challenges include efficiently resolving overdue fines, managing holds or reservations, and assisting patrons with varying levels of familiarity with library technology. Effective communication, patience, and strong organizational skills are essential for balancing multiple tasks and providing excellent customer service. Regular collaboration with librarians and other staff also helps ensure smooth library operations and enhances the overall patron experience.

What does a circulation clerk do at a library?

A library circulation clerk is responsible for checking books and materials in and out, managing overdue items, collecting fines, and maintaining the circulation desk. They often use library management software and provide customer service to library patrons. The role requires attention to detail and good communication skills.
More about Library Circulation Desk jobs
What cities are hiring for Library Circulation Desk jobs? Cities with the most Library Circulation Desk job openings:
What states have the most Library Circulation Desk jobs? States with the most job openings for Library Circulation Desk jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Library Circulation Desk jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Library Circulation Desk jobs are:
Library Circulation Desk jobs near you
Infographic showing various Library Circulation Desk job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 64% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,193 per year, or $16 per hour.

Library Assistant - Circulation Services

City of Troy Michigan

Troy, MI • On-site

$15/hr

Part-time

PTO

Posted 2 days ago

Job description

Description
Library Assistant
Troy Public Library - Circulation Services
Starting at $15.00/hour
Closing Date: August 3, 2026 at 11:59PM
This position adheres to the Earned Sick Time Act and accrues paid time off
This position offers eight (8) hours of Personal Holiday time each January
The Troy Public Library is an important part of the vibrant, dynamic, and diverse City of Troy which serves an educated and involved community. Being engaged with up-to-date technology is a priority and a value to Library staff, residents, and businesses.
DUTIES
• Use the integrated online library system to check materials in and out.
• Answer phones and renew items over the phone.
• Collect overdue fines and fees for lost/damaged items, issue library cards, and oversee lost and found items.
• Communicate Library policies and procedures to patrons.
• Resolve patron inquiries and complaints.
• Maintain a clean, neat and organized workspace at the circulation desk and in public areas of the Library.
• Perform related work as assigned.
REQUIREMENTS
• High school graduate or GED equivalent.
• Demonstrated ability and/or experience working with Windows-based computers.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Be able to transport Library materials from return bins to carts (lift and push up to 40 pounds).
• File alphabetically and numerically.
• Ability to interact courteously and effectively with the public, library staff, library volunteers, and other City departments.
• As a condition of employment, the successful candidate must pass a pre-employment physical and drug screen (including marijuana).
PREFERRED
• Recent Public Library experience.
• Recent Polaris Library System Software experience.
• Customer service experience.
HOURS:
Part-time, year-round. Forty (40) hours in a two week pay period. Schedule will include at least one evening shift per week and at least two weekend shifts per month (both Saturday and Sunday every second week).
Current Shifts are:
Monday - Thursday Day
9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Friday/Saturday
9:00 AM - 5:15 PM
Monday - Thursday Evening
3:00 PM - 9:15 PM
Sunday
12:30 PM - 5:15 PM
APPLY
Applications are available online at www.troymi.gov/jobopenings
Internal applicants, apply here https://ukg.troymi.gov/.
(Select the three lines on the upper left corner, under "My Info" select "My Career" then "Search for Jobs".)
AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER: The City of Troy is committed to providing equal opportunity employment to all applicants. The City of Troy will consider all qualified applicants for employment regardless of race, religion, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, height, weight, marital status, national origin, age, disability, or veteran status or any other basis protected by federal and law.

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